Category: Taiwan

Taiwan’s outreach to Africa hit a new obstacle after President Lai Ching-te’s planned visit to Eswatini was temporarily blocked by Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar. The move has fueled speculation that China is expanding its pressure campaign beyond diplomacy into control over airspace and travel routes. Some analysts warn this could signal a new form of “aerial blockade,” leveraging third countries to restrict Taiwan’s global engagement. But how sustainable is this tactic — and could it backfire? In this episode, we examine the geopolitical forces behind the decision, China’s influence in Africa and how Taiwan can respond to tightening constraints on its international presence. *Recorded on April 30, 2026 at 1:45pm Taiwan Standard Time Host: Wen-Ti Sung Producer: Tina Hsu Our guests: Lai I-chung Prospect Foundation President Marc Cheng Tamkang University Department of Diplomacy and International Relations Adjunct Lecturer Chapters: 00:00:00 – China’s African Allies Block Lai’s Eswatini Trip 00:01:26 – Is China Weaponizing Airspace Against Taiwan? 00:12:30 – Beijing’s Economic Leverage over African Allies

Source: China Attempts To Contain Taiwan With ‘Aerial Blockade’ by African Allies | Taiwan Talks EP 825

A fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran has shone a spotlight on China’s evolving role in global crises. After initially keeping a low profile, Beijing has stepped up diplomatic efforts, positioning itself as a mediator while maintaining close ties with Tehran. At the same time, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz are fueling speculation that China could use this crisis — including Iran’s collection of tolls in the Chinese currency — to advance RMB internationalization and reshape global energy markets. But is China emerging as a genuine peacemaker — or pursuing a strategic advantage? In this episode, we examine China’s shifting approach to the Iran conflict, the economic and geopolitical implications, and what these developments could mean for the Taiwan Strait and the broader balance of power. *Recorded on April 9, 2026 at 3:15pm Taiwan Standard Time Host: Wen-Ti Sung Producer: Chinyeh Chiang Our guests: Lee Chia-yi National Chengchi University Department of Diplomacy Professor Eric Chiou National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University Center of Human Sciences Associate Professor Chapters: 00:00:00 – Beijing’s Risks in Iran Talks 00:01:50 – China Claims Credit for Truce 00:11:34 – Iran Collects Hormuz Tolls with RMB, Crypto 00:22:20 – Xi-Trump Summit Back On

Source: China’s Stakes in Iran Talks: Currency, Oil and a Bid for Global Influence | Taiwan Talks EP 812

Taiwan is heavily investing in its minesweeping and minelaying capabilities to bolster deterrence against potential Chinese invasion. Join our discussion on how Taiwan should prioritize its approach.

Source: Can Taiwan’s Naval Mines Thwart Potential Chinese Attacks? | Taiwan Talks